In my Every QIB qualifier in the 2018 Draft Class, I noted that Crosby, a full QIB qualifier, was likely the Lions top target at offensive tackle, recommending to fans “to monitor (him) because of his positional flexibility to play offensive tackle and guard.” I also projected Detroit needing to use pick 51 in the second round to draft him because I thought he would be gone by pick 82.

I wasn’t alone in my ranking of Crosby, he was widely considered a Day 2 prospect on a national level as well, but rumors surrounding an ankle injury appears to have pushed him down draft boards.

I had Crosby as the Lions 2nd round pick in my final mock. Interesting how he fits after drafting Ragnow. Was someone I liked very much for Texans as a starting LT.

If Crosby’s injuries check out, he could wind up being the steal of the draft for the Lions, due to his upside. His strength, nasty demeanor to finish defenders, positional flexibility gives Crosby advantages in pass protection and in the run game.

Crosby has the potential to start Day 1 for the Lions, but I don’t think he will be expected to. I believe he will be Detroit’s sixth offensive lineman, who is capable of backing up four, if not all five, of the offensive line positions, as well as being the sixth lineman on the field when they want to go to a Jumbo formation.

With the injury bug ever-present in the NFL, Crosby will play this year and it’s likely he will be starting at some point. His presence will allow the Lions to enter training camp with the deepest offensive line they have had in decades.

Crosby’s value will extend beyond this year as well because after 2019, the Lions will have decisions to make on Taylor Decker (with a team controlled first-round contract option), Graham Glasgow and T.J. Lang, who will have expiring contracts. Depending on Crosby’s development, he could be in line to be a starter in 2020.

Brandon Thorn, of NDT Scouting, is an expert on offensive line evaluation and someone whose opinion I highly value. He was a big fan of what the Lions have done in this draft, landing Frank Ragnow and Tyrell Crosby. Take a look at the video clips below to see Crosby’s potential:

Detroit landed my top C and #3 OT in Crosby. Would bet he gets a shot at LG.

Crosby vs. Vea. The latter’s pad level, play strength, and hand placement got the better of the former multiple times. Crosby was able to knock him back & show some power on the last clip. Fun matchup. pic.twitter.com/YnprLLr95w

Transverse/rotational power is Crosby’s best trait IMO. Consistently creates leverage with his hands inside the frame of his opponent & shows very good torque through his core/hips/hands. pic.twitter.com/IhpXJq8rHj

Really like how Crosby adjusts from a down block on power to swinging his hips around, sealing, and steering. Maintains control by creating leverage with his hands. Gives the RB a defined read and alley off his backside. It won’t always go as planned, how do guys react? pic.twitter.com/ZVN3KOqSqt